GREENVILLE, Ky. (7/26/13) – When tragedy strikes in Muhlenberg County, citizens seem to pull together to become that much stronger, and closer. A prime example is the tragic death of Muhlenberg High School student Sadie Beth Smith, who lost her life in a car accident on January 28 of last year.

Although her family and many friends still mourn her loss, they have turned this tragedy into something positive... the weekend-long, county-wide 2nd Annual Swingin' For Sadie Coed Softball Tournament.

Friends and family joined together to organize a softball tournament in her memory last year. That tournament was a huge success, raising over $5000. This year's event already has 23 teams scheduled, according to Sadie's uncle, Tyler Smith.

Mr. Smith told news officials, "I never thought the event would get this big."

This marathon event is scheduled for Friday night at 6:30 at Dunmor, New Cypress and Weir Ballparks. Saturday action starts at 8:00 a.m. and will last all night up to Sunday morning around 3:00 a.m." Tyler Smith said.

Ms. Smith's mother, April Smith, noted that "all proceeds from the event go to the Sadie Beth Smith Scholarship Fund. Scholarship funds are used to help pay for college tuition, books, and other necessities."

There is still a great need for donations from area businesses for raffle prizes to be held throughout the event.

To make a donation, contact April Smith at (270)543-6662 or stop by the Old National Bank branch in Beechmont. You can also mail your donation to Old National Bank, 3740 Merle Travis Highway, Beechmont, Ky. 42323.

For more details on the event contact Tyler Smith at (270) 820-5861.

Ms. Smith added that "Our family would like to give a special thanks to local churches and the community for the donations and support, including Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Drakesboro, South Carrolton Missionary Baptist Church, Greenville 1st Baptist Church, 2nd Baptist Church in Greenville, Vernal Grove, Greenville United Methodist, Carter Creek and Hazel Creek.

We'd also like to thank the many local businesses that have joined in as sponsors, including Pizza Plus, Central Flooring, Wilcox Muffler & Brake Inc., State Farm (Gary Carver), Poole's Pharmacy Care, Aquascapes Pools & Spa, Town & Country Beauty Shop, -Dr. Kelly Tarter, Big Ben's Cleaning Service in Paducah, Rafferty's in Paducah, and Tammy's T-shirts & Designs."

For updates and more details log on to "Swingin' For Sadie" on Facebook.